Project description: Social media tools for blogs, photo and video sharing, and online social networking websites have revolutionized accountability in governance, awareness about current affairs, and even helped in the preservation of cultural artifacts through digital media. How can similar tools be made available in developing regions, where literacy and network connectivity remain significant challenges? We are working on a variety of innovative technologies in this regard, in affiliation with non-profit organizations working on community radio, community video, phone-based messaging systems, etc. We are looking for a person with a journalism background to help us understand the information needs of low-income communities, and study the impact of technological interventions.

Job description Field research on rural information needs Feedback on the development and deployment of different technologies Work together with PhD and other research scholars, and assist in research and publications Will require travel to various parts of India, including rural areas

Work experience 1+ years job experience, or equivalent talent

Skills needed Bachelors/Masters in mass communication Experience in survey design Very quick at execution Excellent communication skills and a confident personality to effectively engage in discussions with rural communities High levels of persistence and resourcefulness Ability to work independently and take initiative Committed to social development

Long term prospects The job is ideal for those who want to get into a research career or are planning for graduate studies in social sciences research in the near future. Working in a university environment with skilled faculty and research scholars will provide the necessary training and credibility if you want to go in for higher studies

Creative-Radio is an independent forum for people active in or interested in the use of radio in development, in particular promoting public health, improved education, protection of the environment, improved livelihoods, good governance and conflict mitigation. Since it started in 1996, Creative-Radio has been in the forefront of radio's resurgence as a tool for social change and peace-building, and it helps promote best practice in these areas.

RT @creative_radio: INDIA: Sentech cuts off deadbeat radiohttp://ow.ly/2F1IH National Community Radio Forum says none of their stations were shut off

[excerpt]

Sentech, which is battling for funding to stay afloat, escalated its fight with clients that were behind on payments by shutting down the broadcasting signal distribution services of about 40 customers yesterday.

Sentech refuses to name the defaulters. It is understood, however, that among the defaulters are Tshwane University of Technology's campus radio station, owing Sentech about R4 000 on a 30-day period; Ubuhleshowe in Eshowe, KwaZulu-Natal, owing R211 000 - the most debt owed by a community radio station; and the radio station Vukani in Cala, Eastern Cape, owing R16 500.

Sonnyboy Masingi, the chairman of the National Community Radio Forum (NCRF), said last night he was not aware of any stations that were shut off.

"We know that there are some stations owing Sentech, but it's not something that can necessitate the closure of signal to these stations. On my side I see this as a public relations exercise and a cover-up of their own problems," said Masingi.

Creative-Radio is an independent forum for people active in or interested in the use of radio in development, in particular promoting public health, improved education, protection of the environment, improved livelihoods, good governance and conflict mitigation. Since it started in 1996, Creative-Radio has been in the forefront of radio's resurgence as a tool for social change and peace-building, and it helps promote best practice in these areas.